Construction

　The Japanese construction industry continues to face a serious labor shortage, leading to an expansion in the employment of foreign personnel.

　The number of foreign personnel in this sector has been increasing year by year.

　Companies employing foreign personnel range from large general contractors to small and medium-sized construction firms, and these personnel have become vital contributors on construction sites throughout industry.

⑴　Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services

　The “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” residence status is obtained by foreign nationals engaged in work that utilizes specialized knowledge and skills in the field of construction.

　This status is commonly utilized for positions such as architectural design, structural design, construction project management, procurement of materials from overseas, and business negotiations in the fields of engineering and project management.

　Foreign personnel holding the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” residence status cannot be assigned to perform primarily as on-site laborers.

　Therefore, careful attention must be paid when defining their assigned duties.

⑵　Technical Intern Training Program

　The Technical Intern Training Program is intended to provide foreign nationals with the opportunity to acquire skills in Japan and later apply them to the development of their home countries. Many construction companies accept technical interns.

　Technical interns may engage in tasks such as formwork construction, rebar placement, welding, and supporting work in construction and civil engineering projects.

　It should be noted that technical interns are primarily intended to learn skills in Japan and apply them to the development of their home countries.

　Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that arrangements are made with this purpose in mind.

⑶　Specified Skilled Worker

　The Specified Skilled Worker residence status was created to help address labor shortages by accepting foreign nationals who can contribute immediately to the workforce.

　Workers with this status may take on roles such as scaffold assembly and dismantling, on-site work in civil engineering and construction projects, equipment installation, and interior finishing.

　Companies that accept Specified Skilled Workers are required to comply with relevant laws and regulations, including the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act, the Technical Intern Training Act, and labor law.

　They are also responsible for providing support not only in the workplace but also in helping workers adapt to daily life in Japan.

　Hiring foreign workers in the construction industry requires selecting the proper residence status and completing the correct procedures.

　Mistakes in this process may create risks for the company and may also negatively impact the foreign worker’s future stay in Japan.

　For companies to hire foreign personnel appropriately, it is recommended to consult a lawyer who actively provides support for foreign employment.

　With their guidance, you can proceed with the necessary procedures smoothly and with confidence.